Ford recalls 741,195 SUVs and pickups over transmission defect that can cause rollaway

DEARBORN, Mich., July 1 (Our Michigan Times) — Ford Motor Co. is recalling 741,195 U.S. SUVs and pickup trucks because a transmission defect can damage the park system and raise the risk of rollaway, crash or injury, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

The recall covers certain 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition models, 2020-2021 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs, and 2021 Ford F-150 pickups. Ford’s recall number is 26S48.

NHTSA said the defect can cause the transmission parking pawl to engage while the vehicle is moving during certain gear shifts, which can damage the parking system and interfere with the vehicle’s ability to stay in Park.

Ford dealers are expected to update software and inspect or replace damaged transmission components at no cost to owners. Interim letters were expected to go out Aug. 3, and a permanent remedy is anticipated by April 2027, according to the recall notice.

Ford said in its filing with NHTSA that it had received more than 200 reports by May 2026 from owners and regulators about vehicles moving after being shifted into Park, failing to shift into Park or getting stuck in Park. NHTSA said it had also received 24 property-damage reports and nine injury reports, including two emotional-injury claims.